"Heart of Lies" by Jill Marie Landis

"Heart of Lies" is the newest novel in the Irish Angel series by Jill Marie Landis. This romance novel is set in the late 1800's New Orleans, shortly after the Civil War. The author takes us into the world of a young woman named Maddie whose life is about to be shattered. The problem is, she doesn't know whether it is a good thing or a bad thing. Her past could possibly stand in the way of true happiness, but Maddie doesn't feel she deserves anything good to come her way.

Synopsis: Maddie Grande, who was raised to be a thief on the streets of New Orleans, now lives in the bayou. She longs to change her life, but her twin “brothers” have forced her to become involved in a kidnapping. When she falls for the detective assigned to the kidnapping case, her world is turned upside-down.

I read this book not knowing that it is the second book in a series. This novel stands alone as a great read but as a series makes it even more enjoyable. Though it has many chapters, it was very hard for me to put down. Very suspenseful. I found the characters very believable and the storyline was very appropriate. The author successfully created a romance novel with Christian values which I very much appreciated. Subtle tones of spirituality are throughout this book. I loved the way the author incorporated it.

This book is appropriate for adults. I could see gifting this book to a friend, family member or anyone else you can think of. Maddie's story of learning to forgive herself (because she is already forgiven) is a strong message that many of us struggle with. I think everyone would benefit from this refreshing story. I look forward to going back and reading the first in the Irish Angel Series, "Heart of Stone" and reading the next book "Heart of Glass" when it is released.

Disclosure: I have been provided a copy of this book by Zondervan without charge in order to review this book. All opinions in this review are solely mine.